Virginia Men’s Basketball to Open 2025-26 Season Against NC Central
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The University of Virginia men’s basketball team will begin its 2025-26 campaign Friday, November 8th, hosting North Carolina Central at John Paul Jones Arena. This marks the third all-time meeting between the programs.
The contest offers a first look at a substantially revamped Cavalier roster under Tony Bennett, featuring newcomers like incoming freshmen christian Bliss (St. Anne’s Belfield) and Owen Odom (Collegiate School). UVA returns just three players-redshirt sophomores Elijah Gertrude, Carter Lang, and Desmond Roberts-from the previous season, and only four total points scored in 2024-25, all from Roberts.
Virginia boasts a dominant 257-63 (.803) record in 20 seasons at JPJ,including a 1-0 start to the 2025-26 home schedule. The Cavaliers have consistently excelled on their home court, winning 41 of their last 51 contests and achieving double-digit home victories for 16 consecutive seasons. UVA holds a 2-0 all-time series advantage over NCCU, securing wins of 77-47 in 2023-24 and 73-61 in the 2022-23 season opener, both played at John Paul Jones Arena.
Following Friday’s matchup, Virginia will continue non-conference play, hosting Hampton on Tuesday, November 11th, with tipoff scheduled for 9 p.m. on ACC Network.
